Microchipping your pet is a mandatory requirement for a 'Pet Passport'
On 28th February 2000 the 'Pet Travel Scheme' (PETS) came into force. Initially for a trial period of one year it allowed dogs and cats to travel, to EU countries, with their owners without the mandatory six month quarantine period on return to the UK.
Five years on many thousands of pets have holidayed successfully in Europe and, despite a little 'fine-tuning', the system remains largely unchanged.
Although the UK continues to use the term 'Pet Travel Scheme' you will actually now apply for a EU Pet Passport. If you intend visiting a EU country, with your dog or cat, you will need to plan your pet's passport at least six months before you intend to travel. The first requirement will be to have your pet microchipped for identification (the 'chip' must be ISO standard 11784 or 11785 - if not you are advised to take your own scanner with you).
Once your pet is over the age of twelve weeks it will require a rabies vaccination and then blood tested one month later to check immunity levels. Please note your pet cannot return to the UK until six months following the date of the successful blood test. Within 24-48 hours of returning to the UK your pet must also be treated for ticks and tapeworms.
Please check with the DEFRA web site for up to date information on the Travel Scheme.
A Microchip is approximately the size of a grain of rice, encased in a bio-compatible material. The surface of the casing is pitted to enable the animal's tissues to bond and grow around the chip so holding it in position. Insertion is quick and causes no apparent discomfort to the animal. If positioned correctly, ie. just under the skin between the shoulder blades, it is unlikely that the 'chip' will migrate.
Cost: £15.00 per animal. The price includes:
Lifetime registration on the Kennel Club's Petlog Database.
PetID personalised collar tag with its own unique number to allow the owner to be traced even when no scanner is available.
Free six weeks Vet Health and third party insurance cover (Valid throughout Europe).
Please contact me for further information or for an appointment. I am available to attend your Show or Health Screening sessions and offer a reduced rate for 'chipping in excess of twenty five animals per session.
